Time to graduate from the ECB

So, I've been smoking for about a year now and I'm ready to graduate from the ECB. I did the mods to it but feel it is a PITA when it comes to adding charcoal/wood especially for long smokes. I'm a weekend smoker and looking to try new things to add to my repertoire so ideally I would like to have something that is relatively easy to add fuel to and control temp with. I'd like to keep it under $200 or close to that if possible to keep the better half happy as well. I've only ever used the ECB so would prefer a vertical water smoker but I'm open on that front as well. Would love to hear thoughts and suggestions as I shop. And I promise I'll start adding pics of some of my creations for the advice. I always forget until it's too late. Thanks in advance.

Yeah, congrats but don't toss away.....I've seen some on here that are true relics and beat up but for a nostalgic smoke and a few pics still chug away.....good luck on your next unit....Please avoid the 2nd Generation MES's.....just my opinion...Willie

I am in the same situation, I have ECB want to upgrade to something a little bigger, I am going to keep using my ECB and save a little more and get the 22.5" WSM, they last for years and I do have the ECB to keep me going, so I am just going to wait a little longer and get a good one.

I have a Lang 36 patio, which I cook most stuff on. I also have a Weber 22.5 kettle, which my wife uses to cook chicken. I cook Tri Tip on a Santa Maria Grill. Why I need all these cookers is beyond me but it's a hobby!!

Rib's (Baby Back & St Louis) and Salmon haven't worked for me on the Lang -- they come off OK but I'm not happy with the result.

Anyway, I've ordered a PIT BARREL COOKER for a couple of reasons. The most important is I can easily carry it with me in my motor home but more importantly, I think it will produce great ribs and salmon. I was thinking about a WSM for use on road trips and at home but for a purchase price of $289 I'm going to give the Pit Barrel Cooker a try. Take a look at the reviews the PBC gets -- I haven't found a bad review.